A rolling stone gathers no dust – but FM headsets do! Just ask any venue that has an FM or Infrared system in place for the hard of hearing. Headsets just don’t get used. Why?
Let me count the reasons:
- Headsets mess up the ladies’ hair
- Headsets advertise hearing loss
- Headsets are generally uncomfortable
- Batteries may not be charged
- Headsets may walk off and disappear
- Sanitary issues for many people – require maintenance
- Just don’t work for those with hearing aids – hearing aids must be removed!
- Interference can be an issue for FM – Infrared requires a direct line of sight
FM and Infrared systems generally work well but just don’t get used. So a venue can install an FM or Infrared system for less than a hearing loop up front, but at what cost per user? One church had an FM system that ONE person used. After installing an induction hearing loop, there were TEN users. Hmmm……
Once a hearing loop is installed, there is virtually no maintenance, except for the
few loop receiver headsets for those brave souls that will use them. And those that have spent $2,500-$7,500 for a pair of hearing aids can put them to use by switching to the telecoil (“T”) setting to enjoy clear sound through the aids that are already programmed for their own hearing loss. No fuss, no muss!
Hearing loops open up a whole new audience that has not been adequately served in our Country. The number of people that can listen in the loop is unlimited where FM and Infrared systems are limited by the number of headsets available in the venue. Hearing loops are universal so a hearing aid wearer can hear in looped venues around the world.
Both FM/Infrared and Hearing Loop Systems meet ADA standards for accessibility in public venues. However, the new ADA standards effective 3/15/12 require that 25% of the required assistive listening headsets be hearing aid compatible. If a venue has a hearing loop installed, this requirement does not apply.
With induction hearing loops, people bring, maintain and use their own wireless receiver (the hearing aid) – invisibly! For more information about hearing loops, visit ww.assist2hear.com .
Another great post! Yeah I always see that equipment at venues and it’s hardly ever used. It sounds like hearing loops are a much better way to go. Thanks for taking the time to maintain such a useful blog!
My child has Auditory Processing I was thinking of getting a FM for the class room. She is in year 5. Who would your Loop Systems work with her. And if it can work how much are they.
Thanks Rachel
Hi Rachel,
The loop system would have to be installed in the classroom. The cost may be more than FM equipment but I believe the sound is superior. However, FM may be the easiest to install. I would talk with the school and see what they are willing to do to accomodate her. Our installation in a classroom typically runs $2500-3000 but I don’t know what it would be in AU.
Hopefully I answered your questions, if not, feel free to contact me again.
Laura Hansen